RFID stands for "radio frequency identification." RFID microchip transponders, or "tags," are small devices that can be embedded in consumer goods. As part of a system called "Auto-ID," the RFID tag transmits its unique ID number via radio waves to a nearby reader device, enabling the item to be tracked in the factory, in the store, and even after it has been purchased by a consumer (even after a garment has been washed!). A retailer could recognize a returning customer as he or she walks into the store by surreptitiously reading a tag embedded in the customer's clothing, and use information about the customer's prior purchases to tailor the salesperson's pitch. Of course, it is possible to conceive of much more interesting applications for RFID tags.

That's where we come in. RFtracker maintains two databases: a "match" database, which matches RFID tag numbers with the people who possess goods bearing those tag numbers; and a "sightings" database, which holds records of RFID tag sightings by RFID readers located around the world (with time, place, and tag number). If you already have a tag number, you can use the "sightings" database to see where that tag has been sighted. (This service is free, although you'll have to pay if you want "real-time" data, which includes sightings within the past 24 hours; you can choose to have real-time data sent to you via e-mail, pager, or text message.) If all you have is the name of the person that you want to track, you'll want to start with our "match" database, to see if it includes any RFID tags associated with that person.

We're always looking to improve our database. If you operate an RFID reader (whether you're a merchant, a manufacturer, or just a hobbyist), please contact us to discuss arrangements for transmitting your data to us. In exchange, we'll be happy to provide you with enhanced access to our databases, and for especially valuable data (for example, real-time RFID sightings, or information that helps us match names to RFID tag numbers) we may even pay you outright.

If you're ready to try our services now, select one of the databases below. If not, please feel free to view our demo, or click here for links to additional information about RFID and Auto-ID.